The different causes of head swelling may stem from a brain injury or infection, or may just stem from a swollen neck. It is usually a cause of concern and needs to be addressed by a doctor, as blood vessels in the brain may be contributing to a lack of blood flow. Often, a condition called goose egg can be caused by a blow to the head, resulting in the veins of the scalp to leak blood and fluid, causing swelling. Most head swelling symptoms are caused by injury, and proper medical attention should be taken immediately to avoid serious and permanent damage.
General head swelling may be the result of edema, or fluid retention in the neck and head areas. Even this seemingly benign form of head swelling needs to be taken seriously in case of escalated swelling later on. There are times when the lymph nodes of the brain can swell in response to infection, which will cause swelling in the head. Another type of infection that can cause head swelling is a general skin infection, and this is usually treated with antibiotics that will in turn reduce swelling. An allergic reaction to a sting of an insect or to a certain food can induce swelling of the head and other body areas.
A condition called goose egg is the result of an injury to the top of the head, and it causes blood and fluid to secrete from the scalp. This can result in head swelling and is a serious condition that should be treated under the appropriate medical settings. When an injury occurs, blood vessels in the brain may not function properly, leading to improper blood flow in the brain. Lack of blood flow in the brain can swell the brain and the top of the head.
Immediate and prompt medical attention should be sought at any sign of swelling in the head, even if no pain occurs. Pain may not even occur because of numbness in the afflicted areas, making it important to seek medical attention immediately. Applying ice to the head is the first step to help reduce swelling before professional medical action is taken. Sometimes a doctor will keep an injured person in a hospital to help reduce swelling further, as well as to analyze the healing progress of the brain and underlying tissues.